When prison inmate and former police officer John Brace says he's willing to give up information about a long-dead wheeler dealer in return for protection for his family, Vera knows that she has to look into his claims.

But opening up this cold case strikes much closer to home than Vera anticipates as her investigation takes her back in time to The Seagull, a once decadent and now derelict nightclub where her deceased father and his friends used to congregate.

As Vera's past collides dangerously with the present, she will have to confront her unwanted memories and face the possibility that her father was involved in what happened. The truth is about to come out but is Vera ready for what it will reveal?

In the media

The Seagull brilliantly evokes the run-down seaside resort of Whitley Bay . . . a mystery as satisfying as anything Cleeves has written.

Sunday Times

An excellent, atmospheric mystery. Ann Cleeves is our Queen in the North, and The Seagull another jewel in her crown.

Mick Herron

Millions will be familiar with Brenda Blethyn’s portrayal of Vera in the television series of the same name but Cleeves’ engaging prose provides a much deeper, subtler insight into an intriguing and likeable character . . . readers will enjoy Vera’s relentless quest for the truth in this astutely observed, atmospheric crime novel.

Daily Express

Darker and more intricate than ever, [The Seagull] shows a new side to Vera as she confronts her prejudices and the past